Constipation

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What is Constipation?

Constipation (irregularity of bowels; lack of regular bowel movements), is a common symptom, but often, constipation remains unrecognized until the patient develops sequelae such as anorectal disorders or diverticular disease.

Several definitions of constipation have been proposed based upon passing stools frequency (often less than 3 times weekly) in different population groups. However, it is more useful to approach constipation operationally, as a change in the bowel habit or defecatory behavior that acutely or chronically results in symptoms or diseases that are resolved by relieving the constipation.

Constipation symptoms:

infrequent or hard stools
difficulty passing stools
discomfort passing stools.
constipation pain during the passage of a bowel movement
inability to pass a bowel movement after straining or pushing for more than 10 minutes
no bowel movements after more than 3 days.

Infants who are still exclusively breastfed may go 7 days without passing stools. Stools are hard due to the lack of water. Constipation may be associated with several disorders.

Constipation is a symptom rather than a disease in itself.

Who gets Constipation?

Self-reported constipation is one of the most common gastro disorders. About 2% of the population describe constant or frequent intermittent episodes of constipation. Constipation is thought to be more common in women than men.

Internationally, prevalence of self-reported constipation varies substantially because of differences among ethnic groups in what is perceived as constipation.

Predisposing Factors

The causes of constipation are numerous. Constipation is most often caused by a diet low in fibre, a distinct lack of physical activity, not consuming enough water daily, or delaying toilet habits when the urge to defecate first occurs. Stress and travel can also contribute to constipation or other changes in bowel habits.

Other times, diseases of the bowel (such as irritable bowel syndrome), pregnancy, certain medical conditions (like an underactive thyroid or cystic fibrosis), mental health problems, neurological diseases, or medications may be the reason for your constipation. More serious causes, like colon cancer, are much less common.

Constipation in children often occurs if they hold back bowel movements when they aren't ready for toilet training or are afraid of it.

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